We recently came across a blog post on the Australian Lifeguard Network blog that aims to educate lifeguards about Shallow Water Blackout.

“What does this all mean for us as Lifeguards? Firstly we need to be aware of the potential for even strong swimmers and athletes to drown. Secondly, we need to be aware of the behaviours that lead to SWB – namely extended underwater swimming and hyperventilating prior to submersion. We need to be proactive in either monitoring these behaviours or eliminating them entirely from our facilities. And finally we need to actively scan the bottom of the pool, not just the surface to detect swimmers who may have lost consciousness without any obvious warning signs.”

To read more visit their blog here: http://www.australianlifeguardnetwork.com.au/Blog/tabid/204/EntryId/48/Shallow-Water-Blackout.aspx